Europa Universalis 5 Crashing on Start Issue: Possible Fixes Explored

Follow this article to learn some of the potential fixes to help you resolve the Europa Universalis 5 (EU5) crashing at start issue.

Army Composition guide (Image via Paradox Interactive)
Learn how to fix the crashing at start issue in the game (Image via Paradox Interactive)

The Europa Universalis 5 (EU5) crashing at start issue lives up to its name, as many players have reported experiencing crashes upon launching the game. In this error, the game automatically closes immediately, preventing players from even starting their session. As a result, the excitement of enjoying this newly released title is quickly ruined.

If you are currently experiencing a similar issue, here is a detailed article to help you out.

Also read: How To Automate Army in Europa Universalis 5

Note: The mentioned fixes are unofficial and may not work for everyone. However, they are definitely worth your time and effort.

Possible Fixes for Europa Universalis 5 (EU5) Crashing at Start Issue

Such an issue can be frustrating for most players (Image via Paradox Interactive)
Such an issue can be frustrating for most players (Image via Paradox Interactive)

Here are some of the fixes that will help you fix the crashing at start issue in the game:

  • Modify launch options
  • Update graphics drivers
  • Verify the integrity of game files

Below is a detailed explanation of these methods.

Modify Launch Options

The first way is to modify the game’s launch options and run Europa Universalis 5 using DirectX 11 to resolve potential compatibility issues. Below are the detailed steps to modify the launch options in the game:

  • Launch Steam and go through your Game Library.
  • Locate Europa Universalis 5, and Right-click on it.
  • Next, click Properties and choose General.
  • Afterward, navigate to the dialogue box at the bottom that says Launch Options.
  • Now, type -dx11 into that box.
  • Exit the window and run Europa Universalis 5.

If you still encounter the issue after these steps, we recommend that you proceed to the next solution.

Update Graphics Card

An outdated graphics card can likely be a potential cause of the EU5 Not Loading Error. Fortunately, you can easily update them to the latest available version by visiting the official site of your installed graphics card manufacturer.

Once there, fill in all the required details and check for any available options. However, if any new update is available, all you need to do is perform a clean installation.

Verify Integrity of Files

Verify the integrity of your game files (Source: Steam)
Verify the integrity of your game files (Source: Steam)

Any missing or corrupted files for the game may result for such issue. Therefore, you can use Steam to verify and fix the game files. Here are the detailed steps to do so:

  • At first, launch Steam and open the Game Library.
  • Next, right-click on the icon of Europa Universalis 5, navigate to Properties, and click on Installed Files.
  • Now, select Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  • Afterward, you need to wait until the detailed scan is over. However, this verification process can take a good amount of time.
  • Restart Europa Universalis 5.

Hopefully, these fixes will resolve your crashing on start issues in Europa Universalis 5.


Europa Universalis 5 Logo
Europa Universalis 5 (Paradox Interactive)

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